At Tanglewood Conservatories, we are not just builders of extraordinary glass structures; we are dreamers, explorers, and lovers of historic architecture. Our commitment to craftsmanship and our appreciation for the beauty of the past are at the heart of everything we do. This passion is embodied by our founders, Alan and Nancy, who recently celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary in a way that truly reflects their dedication to their craft.
A Passionate Journey to Scotland
For their milestone anniversary, Alan and Nancy embarked on an unforgettable journey to Scotland, a land known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. However, this trip held a unique purpose – to explore the intricate world of glass houses, conservatories, and botanic gardens.
From the moment they landed in Scotland, Alan and Nancy were captivated by the grandeur of the structures they encountered. From the renowned Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh to the hidden gems like the Dunmore Pineapple, they traversed the country in search of architectural treasures. Each conservatory and glass house told a story of innovation and artistry, echoing the very principles that drive Tanglewood Conservatories.
As Alan and Nancy stood amidst the lush greenery of the Scottish gardens, they couldn’t help but reflect on their journey. They shared a heartfelt message with us:
“Being passionate about what you do is one thing, but being able to explore the world and the historic architecture it has to offer is what allows us to do what we do at Tanglewood Conservatories. Our trip to Scotland has reinforced our love for conservatory architecture, and it’s a reminder of why we started this incredible journey together.“
Inspiration for the Future
The anniversary adventure in Scotland was not just a celebration of 30 years of marriage but also a reaffirmation of the dedication that Alan and Nancy bring to Tanglewood. The stunning glass houses and conservatories they explored have left an indelible mark on their hearts and have filled them with fresh inspiration.
As they return to their work at Tanglewood, Alan and Nancy carry the spirit of Scotland’s historic architecture with them. Their commitment to creating exceptional conservatories, inspired by the world’s most beautiful designs, continues to shape the legacy of Tanglewood Conservatories.
Here are just a few glimpses at the inspirations they captured in their travels!
During their remarkable journey through Scotland, Alan and Nancy made a captivating stop at the Kibble Palace in Glasgow’s Botanic Gardens. This iconic glasshouse, with its intricate ironwork and towering glass walls, left them in awe of its Victorian grandeur. One fascinating tidbit about the Kibble Palace is that it was designed by John Kibble, a wealthy Scottish businessman, as a private conservatory to house his collection of exotic plants. However, in an act of remarkable generosity, he later donated it to the city of Glasgow in 1873, allowing the public to enjoy its botanical wonders. It stands today as a testament to the power of shared passion for conservatory architecture and the beauty of preserving historic treasures for all to admire.
While Alan & Nancy were there they visited the Winter Garden Glasshouse at the People’s Palace, a place of historical and architectural significance. However, they discovered that this cherished glasshouse is currently closed for extensive restoration, with an estimated closure period of another five years. This news, while disappointing in the short term, also offered a glimpse into the dedication to preserving Scotland’s architectural heritage. Alan and Nancy understood the importance of such restoration efforts, recognizing that when the Winter Garden Glasshouse reopens its doors after this significant endeavor, it will emerge as a shining example of historic preservation and a true testament to the enduring legacy of conservatory architecture. Visitors can anticipate a remarkable and revitalized experience in the heart of Glasgow when this beloved glasshouse is finally unveiled!
Alan and Nancy’s adventures led them to the Dunmore Pineapple, a striking 18th-century architectural curiosity. The Dunmore Pineapple is renowned for its unique design—a grand stone pineapple perched atop a Georgian villa. What truly intrigued them was the villa’s glasshouses disappearance, leaving only the pineapple behind. The Earl of Dunmore, the villa’s owner, is believed to have removed it intentionally after his European tour, leaving the pineapple as a lasting symbol of his grand adventures.
A remarkable twist to their story is that Alan and Nancy had the rare opportunity to spend the night inside the pineapple itself. This added a touch of magic to their journey, allowing them to immerse themselves even more deeply in the history and charm of this iconic Scottish landmark.
“It was so intriguing to me, when you look at photographs of this Pineapple house, it is always the exterior but we never saw what lives inside of the pineapple itself! So of course, our curiosity got the better of us and knew we had to stay there and figure out what was inside the building and the stunning pineapple crown at the top!”
While in Edinburgh, Alan and Nancy also made a stop at the Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, where they encountered the historic glasshouses. These remarkable structures, once vibrant and teeming with botanical wonders, are currently closed for extensive repair and restoration. We had no idea all of these conservatories were under restoration but are truly glad the community is dedicated to preserving these architectural wonders. We can’t wait to visit when they are restored to their former glory!
Have you ever visited any of these beautiful, historic cities?
Are you feeling inspired? Elevate your lifestyle and explore the art of conservatory architecture with our team! Give us a call at 410 479 4700 or fill out our inquiry form.
Look out for our next blog from our different team members traveling!